Latest Ratings

In short: A real tough cookie, especially if it's windyIn full: I fond this 5 lap course very challenging. The moor is harsh when it's windy, which it was. A November date for the race meant it was sodding freezing too, but despite all of this there was a great sense of camaraderie in the very small field of runners, and the support from spectators was excellent.

The lapped nature of the race made it good for working out just how much more pain you had left to endure ;)Date of review: November 25, 2009

In short: This race has everything, beach, grass, trails, and a little bit of pavement thrown in for good measureIn full: I've done this race several times and I swear that Sunderland Strollers must be praying to the weather gods, as it's always glorious sunshine for this race.

The start is very tough on the beach, especially if the tide is in, but the terrain eases off as you climb (the one and only) short hill onto the leas. Then it's grass & trails all the way through to Whitburn. Then it's on to the promenade and back down onto the beach for the finish.

Stunning scenery running along the seafront, and a great atmosphere from the competitors, as well as a pretty decent (if a little random) goody bag at the finish.Date of review: September 5, 2009

In short: Hills, hills and more hills, with some fantastic scenery thrown in for good measure.In full: A nice little bimble around Gibside estate, the trees in November all multicoloured which gives the feeling of running around a picture postcard.

It's a toughy, starting in the middle of the hill, working your way to the top of the ridge, back down to the stream at the bottom, then a long climb back to the top again before finishing on a wide grassy avenue back down in the middle of the hill.Date of review: September 5, 2009

In short: This isnt just a half marathon, it is *the* half marathonIn full: Yes it's expensive, and yes there's a good chance you're going to have to dodge walkers (even if you start at the front), but the atmosphere in this race is awesome - from the party at the start, to the crowds along the route, to the Red Arrows, it's simpley fantastic. I am a bit biased living a stones throw from the course, but it really is that good. The people who line the route are there for everyone, not just the people they know and you cant go wrong with good old geordie hospitality. *big thumbs up*Date of review: October 1, 2007